US EditionOfcom backs away from change to rule over politicians acting as presenters
Ofcom clarified rules after a High Court ruling, specifying politicians cannot present news shows but may host current affairs programs, expanding the definition of politicians involved.
- On Monday, Ofcom updated guidance for broadcasters on politicians presenting news after an industry consultation, publishing the changes with immediate effect in the United Kingdom.
- Earlier this year the High Court quashed Ofcom’s rulings after finding the regulator had conflated a news programme and a current affairs programme, centering on Jacob Rees‑Mogg’s show.
- Ofcom proposed amending the Code but abandoned the change and instead updated guidance, rescinding three decisions and discontinuing five investigations following the court challenge.
- Ofcom widened the definition of `politician` to include members of the House of Lords and representatives of political parties while removing `activists`, defining `exceptional circumstances` as events beyond broadcaster control and noting an MP's status affects impartiality.
- Industry players argued the amendment risked a `de facto ban` on politicians as presenters, while Ofcom said there was a `high level of consensus` to retain Rule 5.3 and balance audience protection with freedom of expression.
15 Articles
15 Articles
GB News issues statement in response to Ofcom announcement
GB News has issued a statement in response to Ofcom's revised guidance on politicians presenting news.The updated guidance, which was issued by the broadcast regulator today, clarifies that politicians are not allowed to be 'newsreaders', unless it is exceptionally justified.Responding to the announcement, a spokesman said: "GB News welcomes Ofcom's decision not to proceed with its proposed changes to the rules. "We always believed that the rule…
Evening Standard
Ofcom issues new guidance around politicians presenting news
The broadcasting regulator announced on Monday that its new guidance would come into force with immediate effect.
Ofcom Issues New Guidance Around Politicians Presenting News
Ofcom has issued new guidance regarding politicians presenting the news following a case that was brought to the High Court by GB News. The updated guidance clarifies that politicians are not allowed to be newsreaders in news programmes and non-news programme unless it is exceptionally justified. It also states that their political allegiance must be made clear and updated its definition of politician to include members of the House of Lords and…
Ofcom Updates Guidance On Politicians Presenting News Shows After Losing GB News Court Battle
Ofcom has strengthened guidance concerning politicians presenting news shows after the UK media regulator lost a court battle with GB News earlier this year. Under British broadcasting rules, politicians are not allowed to present news shows, but can host current affairs shows. Ofcom has announced that this will not change, but the regulator has updated […]
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